It really is amazing when a prayer is answered in they way we want. Sure, all prayers are answered, but sometimes the answer is "no" or "not yet". Recently, I've had a few that were answered and were easy for me to spot. I prayed for an easy way to tell my parents that I'd joined the church, and my Dad guessed it! Pete's parents were due to arrive on Saturday evening, and I wanted to take the kids to church without any discussion about it. I prayed, "make it easy on me". Their Saturday flight was cancelled, and they arrived on Sunday just before we got home from church!
I was telling Noelle about this today, and she said, "We really are Heavenly Father's daughters." Wow.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Sunday, July 27, 2008
I have a calling!
I am now the "publications specialist" for the Newburgh ward. I'm in charge of putting the bulletin together each week, and eventually I'll do a newsletter and update the website. Sounds like my kind of job!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Philippians 4:4-8
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Monday, June 2, 2008
The Faith of our Father
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Faith of Our Father,” Ensign, May 2008, 68–70, 75
True religion should not originate from what pleases men or the traditions of ancestors, but rather from what pleases God, our Eternal Father.
The Faith of Our Father
What, then, is the faith of our fathers? Is it the religion of our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents?
But what of the faith of the ancient ones before them? What of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? Are they not our fathers? Are we not of the house of Israel? What of Noah and Enoch and our first parents, Adam and Eve?
What of the Savior and those disciples who followed Him?
The faith of our Father in Heaven has been consistent since the beginning of time, even from before the foundation of this world. John the Revelator described a great war in heaven. The issue was moral agency, as it is today. All who have ever lived on this earth were among those who fought against Satan and stood with the Son and the Father. Therefore, do we not owe our allegiance to God, our Heavenly Father?
As members of the Church of Jesus Christ, “we believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.” And “we believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.” We believe in the great plan of happiness, the plan of redemption, the plan of salvation, whereby God’s children may experience mortality and return to the presence of the Father—a merciful plan established from before the foundation of this earth.
This is the plan and the faith of our Father!
I testify that the doctrine of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is the faith of our Heavenly Father. It is His truth, revealed to His servants the prophets from the days of Father Adam until our own time. The Father and the Son appeared to Joseph Smith to restore the faith of our Father on this earth, never to be taken away again. God desires that all of His children receive it, irrespective of their background, culture, or tradition. True religion should not originate from what pleases men or the traditions of ancestors, but rather from what pleases God, our Eternal Father.
Continuing revelation is a fundamental feature of this faith. Joseph Smith’s first prayer is a powerful testimony of this. Revelation is a constant compass that keeps us always true to the will and the faith of our Heavenly Father.
Our Heavenly Father loves His children. He hears the prayers of the humble and sincere of every nation, tongue, and people. He grants light to those who seek and honor Him and are willing to obey His commandments. We joyously proclaim that the faith of our Father is on the earth today.
We invite everyone on this beautiful planet to taste of His doctrine and see if it is not sweet and good and precious. We ask those of sincere heart to learn of this doctrine and ask their Father in Heaven if it is not true. And by doing so, all can discover, embrace, and walk in the true faith of their Father, which faith will make them whole.
That is our message to the world.
I bear solemn witness of the reality of God the Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; the Holy Ghost; and living prophets who hold the keys, which have come in unbroken succession from Joseph Smith to Thomas S. Monson today. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
True religion should not originate from what pleases men or the traditions of ancestors, but rather from what pleases God, our Eternal Father.
The Faith of Our Father
What, then, is the faith of our fathers? Is it the religion of our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents?
But what of the faith of the ancient ones before them? What of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? Are they not our fathers? Are we not of the house of Israel? What of Noah and Enoch and our first parents, Adam and Eve?
What of the Savior and those disciples who followed Him?
The faith of our Father in Heaven has been consistent since the beginning of time, even from before the foundation of this world. John the Revelator described a great war in heaven. The issue was moral agency, as it is today. All who have ever lived on this earth were among those who fought against Satan and stood with the Son and the Father. Therefore, do we not owe our allegiance to God, our Heavenly Father?
As members of the Church of Jesus Christ, “we believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.” And “we believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.” We believe in the great plan of happiness, the plan of redemption, the plan of salvation, whereby God’s children may experience mortality and return to the presence of the Father—a merciful plan established from before the foundation of this earth.
This is the plan and the faith of our Father!
I testify that the doctrine of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is the faith of our Heavenly Father. It is His truth, revealed to His servants the prophets from the days of Father Adam until our own time. The Father and the Son appeared to Joseph Smith to restore the faith of our Father on this earth, never to be taken away again. God desires that all of His children receive it, irrespective of their background, culture, or tradition. True religion should not originate from what pleases men or the traditions of ancestors, but rather from what pleases God, our Eternal Father.
Continuing revelation is a fundamental feature of this faith. Joseph Smith’s first prayer is a powerful testimony of this. Revelation is a constant compass that keeps us always true to the will and the faith of our Heavenly Father.
Our Heavenly Father loves His children. He hears the prayers of the humble and sincere of every nation, tongue, and people. He grants light to those who seek and honor Him and are willing to obey His commandments. We joyously proclaim that the faith of our Father is on the earth today.
We invite everyone on this beautiful planet to taste of His doctrine and see if it is not sweet and good and precious. We ask those of sincere heart to learn of this doctrine and ask their Father in Heaven if it is not true. And by doing so, all can discover, embrace, and walk in the true faith of their Father, which faith will make them whole.
That is our message to the world.
I bear solemn witness of the reality of God the Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; the Holy Ghost; and living prophets who hold the keys, which have come in unbroken succession from Joseph Smith to Thomas S. Monson today. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Dream
I had a dream last night that my Dad found out that I'd joined the church. He had gotten a card in the mail from the church and he made a comment like, "Guess who's gotten mixed up with the Mormons?" I said, "Dad, I was baptized on April 13th". He asked me to leave his house (we were visiting for a couple of weeks in the summer). I said, "okay" and started packing up our stuff. That's when I woke up.
I don't really think that would be his reaction, but obviously I'm concernd about what it WILL be...
I don't really think that would be his reaction, but obviously I'm concernd about what it WILL be...
Monday, May 19, 2008
It's been a while
Well, I've been letting this blog slip! Oops...
I've been reading the scriptures daily for about 25 days now! I finished The Pearl of Great Price, The Acts of the Apostles, Romans, and 1 Nephi. I really like reading a chapter each day from the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine & Covenants. I figured the PGP is so short that I'll just read it again when I finish D&C.
Yesterday I got my baptismal certificate, however, there is a mistake on it. It says I was baptized by Benjamin Bellamy Brown... and I'm pretty sure I wasn't! I haven't even met an Elder Brown... So, I need to get that reprinted.
I'm still waiting for my calling, but I'm waiting patiently :)
I don't think the missionaries will be teaching me anymore which makes me sad. I really liked having them over! Elder Stirland moved to a new ward last week and his replacement is Elder Harold. I think the new guy is really new... but he seems really nice (and young!).
I've been reading the scriptures daily for about 25 days now! I finished The Pearl of Great Price, The Acts of the Apostles, Romans, and 1 Nephi. I really like reading a chapter each day from the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine & Covenants. I figured the PGP is so short that I'll just read it again when I finish D&C.
Yesterday I got my baptismal certificate, however, there is a mistake on it. It says I was baptized by Benjamin Bellamy Brown... and I'm pretty sure I wasn't! I haven't even met an Elder Brown... So, I need to get that reprinted.
I'm still waiting for my calling, but I'm waiting patiently :)
I don't think the missionaries will be teaching me anymore which makes me sad. I really liked having them over! Elder Stirland moved to a new ward last week and his replacement is Elder Harold. I think the new guy is really new... but he seems really nice (and young!).
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Name extraction
Well, I have a new hobby in the family history field... name extraction!! Anyone can volunteer by going to http://www.familysearchindexing.org . You go through an online tutorial that's fairly involved to learn all the rules, then you can download a batch of documents and enter the data into a searchable database! I'm currently working on indexing death certificates from the 1940's from Louisiana. There is plenty of older stuff, but I wanted to start off with stuff that I thought I might actually be able to read. A lot of that 19th century handwriting is tough for me to read!!
I can't wait for Oklahoma's death certificates to be available.
I can't wait for Oklahoma's death certificates to be available.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Fast Sunday and Meck Mom
Today was the Fast and Testimony Sacrament Meeting. Nineteen people bore their testamonies today! Lots of the youth got up today, which was really sweet. All four of the Sutton boys were up there, and each of them said, "Mom is going to kill us when she finds out all of us gave our testamonies and she wasn't here to see it!" Since there were so many, the meeting ran LONG. My kids did really well until about 10 minutes past the regular ending time... then it got a bit ugly.
Hannah took her "new" scriptures to church today, and she did a fantastic job being responsible for them. I was pretty impressed. Someone on my 'naturalLDSmoms' Yahoo group posted these Gospel Art Stickers to put into your scriptures. Tonight, I put them in Hannah's. You have to be familiar with the pictures to tell what they are, and that is a bit disappointing. But you CAN read through them, which is really cool. I'm going to print off the footnote stickers and scripture mastery stickers for my new quad.
Hannah took her "new" scriptures to church today, and she did a fantastic job being responsible for them. I was pretty impressed. Someone on my 'naturalLDSmoms' Yahoo group posted these Gospel Art Stickers to put into your scriptures. Tonight, I put them in Hannah's. You have to be familiar with the pictures to tell what they are, and that is a bit disappointing. But you CAN read through them, which is really cool. I'm going to print off the footnote stickers and scripture mastery stickers for my new quad.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
The Missionaries Visited Today
The missionaries came by today with Brother Peachy. Elder Stirland taught the lesson today. It was from the October conference, The Weak and Simple of the Church by President Boyd K. Packer.
It was a timely lesson (as usual) since I'm expecting a calling any time now...
It was a timely lesson (as usual) since I'm expecting a calling any time now...
Monday, April 28, 2008
Family Home Evening
We had our first Family Home Evening tonight! Hannah said the opening prayer with a little prompting. I taught about the Word of Wisdom, and had Hannah and Elijah tell me some things that were healthy and unhealthy. We ate a little snack (M & M's and Whoppers). Hannah asked to say the closing prayer! Then she went upstairs and got her new book, "More of My First Book of Mormon Stories", and wanted me to read her some more stories. She said she can't wait until bedtime so we can pray again. I can't believe how starved she is for spirituality!!
Venita's gift for my baptism came today. She sent a quad set of scriptures and a scripture tote! She also sent Hannah the book "I Spy A Nephite". Earlier she sent Elijah a gift, a felt quiet book of Book of Mormon stories.
Hannah commented that some of the kids her her Sunday School class have their own scriptures, so I said she could have my old set (a triple combo). She thought that was pretty neat.
Venita's gift for my baptism came today. She sent a quad set of scriptures and a scripture tote! She also sent Hannah the book "I Spy A Nephite". Earlier she sent Elijah a gift, a felt quiet book of Book of Mormon stories.
Hannah commented that some of the kids her her Sunday School class have their own scriptures, so I said she could have my old set (a triple combo). She thought that was pretty neat.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Remember God's Blessings
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-775-24,00.html
This talk inspired me to start this blog. I doubt that it's a coincidence that it's the lesson for Relief Society tomorrow.
God blesses my family in so many ways. I have a husband who is able to provide not only for our needs but for most of our wants. I have three healthy, smart, beautiful children. We have a beautiful house that I adore. I have found the TRUTH! I still struggle with some ideas, but I know I'm where I am for a reason.
***
I've started a daily scripture reading plan that I think I can keep up with. I read one chapter each day from each of the following: New Testament, Old Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine & Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. I'm reading Acts, Deuteronomy, 1 Nephi, and Moses right now.
This talk inspired me to start this blog. I doubt that it's a coincidence that it's the lesson for Relief Society tomorrow.
God blesses my family in so many ways. I have a husband who is able to provide not only for our needs but for most of our wants. I have three healthy, smart, beautiful children. We have a beautiful house that I adore. I have found the TRUTH! I still struggle with some ideas, but I know I'm where I am for a reason.
***
I've started a daily scripture reading plan that I think I can keep up with. I read one chapter each day from each of the following: New Testament, Old Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine & Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. I'm reading Acts, Deuteronomy, 1 Nephi, and Moses right now.
Monday, April 21, 2008
72 Hour Kit
Last night as I was falling asleep, I made the decision to start getting a 72 hour kit ready for our family. On Friday, there were three earthquakes, and while they were all mild, it made me think. I did not enjoy being awakend by an earthquake, and I certainly wasn't prepared in any sense. Not two hours after making the decision to get prepared, I was awoken by ANOTHER earthquake. God is speaking, and I am listening!!!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Family History
Wow! This stuff is addictive!!! I'm trying to find info on my great-grandparents who died when my grandmother was a child. I found the 1930 census with their info, and it's just facinating. I just gave my brother the job of getting as much information out of Grandma as possible. I would do it myself, but I live 700 miles away... and he works for the grandparents every weekend.
I ordered a journal to start writing my own stuff in. I finally settled on a 3 ring binder type journal. It came today, and it's much smaller than I expected. I thought it would be 8.5 x 11. So, I suppose I need to head off to Hobby Lobby or Michael's and pick something out. I want to get all of my baptism stuff put into a journal soon.
At play group on Tuesday our topic about keeping our own history. How do we journal/scrapbook/etc. Vanessa told me about http://www.blurb.com that will "slurp" your blog into a book. Unfortunately, they don't support Yahoo 360, so I'm painstakingly transferring 350 or so blog entries to Blogger... I finished up 2005 today, but I didn't start blogging until the middle of August 2005.
I ordered a journal to start writing my own stuff in. I finally settled on a 3 ring binder type journal. It came today, and it's much smaller than I expected. I thought it would be 8.5 x 11. So, I suppose I need to head off to Hobby Lobby or Michael's and pick something out. I want to get all of my baptism stuff put into a journal soon.
At play group on Tuesday our topic about keeping our own history. How do we journal/scrapbook/etc. Vanessa told me about http://www.blurb.com that will "slurp" your blog into a book. Unfortunately, they don't support Yahoo 360, so I'm painstakingly transferring 350 or so blog entries to Blogger... I finished up 2005 today, but I didn't start blogging until the middle of August 2005.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Home teacher
The missionaries came yesterday, and I have to say that I'd gotten used to them coming twice a week! Once a week doesn't seem like enough. Brother Peachy came along as their chaperone, and he has been assigned to be my home teacher! I don't know his companion though. It's nice that he lives so close, just a block away.
I talked to Vanessa today about the earthquake this morning (that was freaky!!), and she commented that I was now a visiting teacher... Well, that's news to me, lol. I knew it would happen, but since I don't know who my companion is or who my teachees will be, I don't feel official yet.
I can't wait to see the pictures and hear the audio from my baptism, but I know Michael is a busy person. Though he might be a lot LESS busy during the next 10 days since Vanessa and Jed will be in Montana.
I talked to Vanessa today about the earthquake this morning (that was freaky!!), and she commented that I was now a visiting teacher... Well, that's news to me, lol. I knew it would happen, but since I don't know who my companion is or who my teachees will be, I don't feel official yet.
I can't wait to see the pictures and hear the audio from my baptism, but I know Michael is a busy person. Though he might be a lot LESS busy during the next 10 days since Vanessa and Jed will be in Montana.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Baptism - April 13, 2008 at 3:00pm
I got to the church twenty minutes early so I’d have plenty of time to get ready. I made small talk with the missionaries and Brother Peachy while the kids played in the chapel. When the McDowell family arrived I was able to start getting ready. I put Joy in charge of Elijah which was no easy task since I had awakened him from his nap to put him in the van. Noelle and I went into the dressing room so I could change into the white dress. Lo and behold, there were half a dozen white dresses to choose from! So, I was misinformed that there was only one dress available, but the dress I had in my possession was probably the best of the lot, so I went with it. Tasha had brought a long, white slip for me to wear underneath because well, white dresses tend to need a little extra help to keep from being see through especially when wet! Then I thought about my shoes… They were definitely NOT white. So, I asked Noelle if I should go barefoot. She said it would be fine if I wanted to. So, I went barefoot, and it was nice.
When I came out of the dressing room, the missionaries suggested that we have some pictures taken. I noticed Elder Smith was sock footed, and I smiled to myself. I commented that Michael was taking pictures for me, and then I noticed he was standing right behind me. There were so many men in suits that he blended right in! Hannah, Elijah, Leah and I had several pictures taken with the Elders. Getting Elijah to stand still was difficult at best. He noticed all the people watching and he decided to do a little dance for everyone’s entertainment.
When I came back into the chapel, I saw Kim, so I went to say "hello". She told me I looked beautiful in the white dress. Hannah asked to sit with her, and I told her that was fine. I went to sit on the front row with Leah, Vanessa, and Noelle. Ann Price, to her surprise (since I forgot to ask her), gave the opening prayer. Jean Pace was our chorister while we sang, "I Stand All Amazed". Noelle gave a wonderful talk about baptism. Hannah came to sit with me at this time.
Brooke, today is truly a day to be remembered. All of us have gathered here today for one purpose: that is to witness and rejoice with you as you enter the waters of baptism. You and I have talked about how sad it is that many members express not remembering much about their baptisms. Elder Robert D. Hales, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve apostles said that we must emphasize the significance of this ordinance so that your baptism will be impressed upon your spiritual memory for the rest of your life. My goal in speaking is that, though the principles we are talking about may not be new, we may recognize and rejoice in the eternal significance of the sacred covenants you are choosing to make today.
Our bible dictionary teaches that the word baptism comes “from a Greek word meaning to dip or immerse.” And that “Baptism in water is the introductory ordinance of the gospel, and must be followed by baptism of the Spirit in order to be complete.”
So today you will receive half of this ordinance, and soon you will receive the second half.
Brooke, I know Heavenly Father has been in your life, all your life bringing you to this point. The Preach My Gospel manual explains that “faith in Jesus Christ and repentance prepare us for the ordinances of baptism and confirmation….An ordinance is a sacred ceremony or rite that shows that we have entered into a covenant with God. A covenant is a binding and solemn agreement between God and man. …Through the ordinance of baptism …we (and you today) covenant to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, always remember Him, and keep His commandments.
The manual also explains that baptism by immersion is a symbol of the death, burial and resurrection of the Savior. “In a similar way, it represents the end of our old life of sin and a commitment to live a new life as a disciple of Christ.”
Elder Hales also describes it this way: “At baptism we make a covenant with our Heavenly Father that we are willing to come into His kingdom and keep His commandments from that time forward, even though we still live in the world.
When we understand our baptismal covenant and the gift of the Holy Ghost, it will change our lives and will establish our total allegiance to the kingdom of God. When temptations come our way, if we will listen, the Holy Ghost will remind us that we have promised to remember our Savior and obey the commandments of God. “
To quote again from Preach My Gospel:
“We must be baptized to become members of the restored church…and to eventually enter the kingdom of heaven. This ordinance is a law of God and must be performed by His authority.” So today you will be baptized under authority of God.
So to review:
“ …Baptism in water has several purposes.
It is for the remission of sins, for membership in the Church, and for entrance into the celestial kingdom; it is also the doorway to personal sanctification when followed by the reception of the Holy Ghost.” (Bible Dictionary)
So your remission of sins and membership in the church will take place through your baptism and confirmation, but what about after today? Well, Preach My Gospel explains: “After baptism we show our faith by keeping our covenants. We also regularly renew the covenants we make when baptized by partaking of the sacrament. Partaking of the sacrament weekly is a commandment. It helps us remain worthy to have the spirit with us always. It is a weekly reminder of our covenants. …Our covenants remind us to repent every day of our lives. By keeping the Commandments and serving others we receive and retain a remission of our sins.”
So that is how we continue to keep our baptismal covenants day to day.
Brooke, though you are nervous, you can have peace, because I have seen in you the desire that the Book of Mormon describes in those who are ready to make and keep baptismal covenants:
“as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life--”(Mosiah 18).
I want to close with a very illustrative quote from our Bible dictionary:
“Baptism is a most sacred ordinance, which a person, having received it, can remember throughout life as a reminder of the personal commitment to Jesus Christ. Its symbolism is beautiful, and its consequences ever so desirable. John the Baptist had the signal honor among all men to take the Son of God into the water and baptize him, after which he saw the Holy Ghost descend upon Jesus. By being baptized Jesus obeyed the law himself, and set the example for all mankind.”
Brooke, I am so excited that you have chosen to follow the example of Jesus Christ in being baptized. I know that all of your family will be eternally blessed for it. I bear my personal testimony of Jesus Christ and of the divinity of this work. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
We then moved to the Primary room for the baptism. I walked into the alcove next to the baptismal font (between the dressing room and the Primary chapel) with Leah and Noelle. Noelle took Leah, and I stepped into the water, walked down the steps, and met Elder Smith in the middle. He was also dressed in all white. He quickly and quietly told me how to hold his arm, cover my nose, and bend my knees. I consciously did not look out into the watching crowd. I didn’t want anything to distract me from this moment. He said the prayer, “Brooke Leigh Rosen, having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.” I bent my knees, held my nose, and went under the water. Even though my eyes were closed, I imagined what it must have looked like to be underwater. I felt the warm water all around me like an embrace. Then I came up out of the water, and walked out of the font. I dried off and changed while Noelle played with Leah. Leah adored hearing her voice echo in the long tiled bathroom. Changing out of a sopping wet, long dress is no easy feat!
When I came back to the chapel Elder Stirland and Elder Ashbaucher were sharing their testimonies. Elijah and Hannah came and sat with me. Vanessa gave a fantastic talk on the Holy Ghost.
[Insert Vanessa’s talk here]
I walked onto the stage for my confirmation, and once again I chose to not look out into the crowd. I sat in the chair, and was surrounded by members of the Priesthood. Bishop Rogers, Brother Forbes, Brother Peachy, Elder Smith, Elder Stirland, and Elder Ashbacher laid their hands on my head while standing in a circle around me. The weight of their hands on my head was much greater than expected. Brother Peachy said the blessing.
Brooke Leigh Rosen, by the authority of the Melchizedek priesthood, I confirm you a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Brooke, receive the Holy Ghost. You have been blessed to be baptized this day by the authority of the Priesthood. Our Heavenly Father rejoices, the heavens rejoice, we rejoice with you. We bless you with the things that you need. The Atonement of Jesus Christ will be in your life. We bless you with the testimony you need to strengthen you. It will take you through the dark days and through a time you will be in need of comfort. Bless you with peace and joy here on this Earth. Bless you with great strength and courage as you raise your family and as you deal with your family matters. Bless you with the Holy Spirit always and as you follow the commandments of God and as you partake of the Sacrament to renew your covenants. Bless you with the blessings that Peter had that you will be among the chosen people. And bless you with the Priesthood in your life through the leaders of the Church and through your home teacher through the people that hold the priesthood. Bless you with health and strength and bless you that you will be a great example to your family, to your friends, and to those who come in contact with you. We do so in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
The experience wasn’t as profound as my father’s, but I did feel a wonderful peace fall over me. I’ve had many instances where I’ve felt the Holy Ghost, but this was much more gentle and sweet. I suppose in the past He needed to use a spiritual sledgehammer to get my attention, but this time I was already listening. When I stood up, the Bishop shook my hand and whispered, “Now you shake everyone’s hand”. So, I shook all of their hands and carefully walked down the stairs (a few weeks ago a woman tripped and fell down them after her confirmation).
Pilar Pucket welcomed me to Relief Society and gave me a few things (a framed picture of Jesus, A Proclaimation of the Living Christ, and a devotional journal). Bishop Rogers welcomed me to the ward. We sang "I Am a Child of God", and Renee with baby Katie in tow gave the closing prayer.
I had to get my stuff out of the dressing room because another baptism was starting, then I walked around to the Relief Society room where the reception was being held. I was amazed at how many people were there. I was congratulated more times than I can count. I am a member of an amazing ward!
Renee gave me a card with a great quote: “Baptism is the critical priesthood ordinance which opens the door to eternal life for each one of us. It is the benchmark from which we count our many blessings because this is when our accountability to follow Jesus Christ and live His Gospel begins” – Elaine L. Jack
I’m truly amazed at how peaceful Leah was during the entire service. Typically she screams if someone she doesn’t know holds her or if I leave her sight. She was perfectly happy with Noelle holding her while I changed clothes, and during both the baptism and confirmation. After the service, she quietly fell asleep in my arms. I’m not sure that has ever happened before. She usually screams before she falls asleep.
I knew it was going to be a rainy day from looking at the forecast, but the night before I prayed that there would be light or no rain when it was time to get the kids to and from the church. That prayer was answered! It may seem like a silly prayer, but trying to get three kids into or out of the van in pouring rain can certainly put me in a horrible mood. Being able to complete that task while staying dry definitely helped set the tone for the day! Our Heavenly Father knows that even the small details make a difference.
For whatever reasons, I didn’t explain to Hannah that I was going to be baptized. However, her Sunday school lesson just happened to be about baptism, and her teacher told her that I was going to be baptized later that day. When I picked Hannah up from Sunday school, she just stared at me in awe. She was VERY excited to get back to church for the service. She adored the white dress, was amazed by the immersion, and just plain giddy during the service. I could tell she felt like she truly belonged. She also enjoyed eating as many cookies as she pleased during the reception!! … When we got home she asked if I would be doing that (baptism) again. I told her ‘no’, but that in two and a half years she would be eight and she could have her own baptism.
I owe a big thanks to the following people: Michael Stanfill for taking pictures and audio recording the service (and having fresh batteries for my tape recorder!), Vanessa Stanfill for her wonderful talk and emotional support, Noelle McDowell for another amazing talk and her emotional support (and baby holding ability!!), Jan Stanfill and Joy Scott for wrangling Elijah, Ann Price and Renee Priddis for offering prayers, Jean Pace for her chorister abilities, Cindy Nielson for playing piano, Brother Peachy for saying my confirmation blessing, and Elders Smith and Stirland for being wonderful, patient yet prompting, thoughtful missionaries
When I came out of the dressing room, the missionaries suggested that we have some pictures taken. I noticed Elder Smith was sock footed, and I smiled to myself. I commented that Michael was taking pictures for me, and then I noticed he was standing right behind me. There were so many men in suits that he blended right in! Hannah, Elijah, Leah and I had several pictures taken with the Elders. Getting Elijah to stand still was difficult at best. He noticed all the people watching and he decided to do a little dance for everyone’s entertainment.
When I came back into the chapel, I saw Kim, so I went to say "hello". She told me I looked beautiful in the white dress. Hannah asked to sit with her, and I told her that was fine. I went to sit on the front row with Leah, Vanessa, and Noelle. Ann Price, to her surprise (since I forgot to ask her), gave the opening prayer. Jean Pace was our chorister while we sang, "I Stand All Amazed". Noelle gave a wonderful talk about baptism. Hannah came to sit with me at this time.
Brooke, today is truly a day to be remembered. All of us have gathered here today for one purpose: that is to witness and rejoice with you as you enter the waters of baptism. You and I have talked about how sad it is that many members express not remembering much about their baptisms. Elder Robert D. Hales, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve apostles said that we must emphasize the significance of this ordinance so that your baptism will be impressed upon your spiritual memory for the rest of your life. My goal in speaking is that, though the principles we are talking about may not be new, we may recognize and rejoice in the eternal significance of the sacred covenants you are choosing to make today.
Our bible dictionary teaches that the word baptism comes “from a Greek word meaning to dip or immerse.” And that “Baptism in water is the introductory ordinance of the gospel, and must be followed by baptism of the Spirit in order to be complete.”
So today you will receive half of this ordinance, and soon you will receive the second half.
Brooke, I know Heavenly Father has been in your life, all your life bringing you to this point. The Preach My Gospel manual explains that “faith in Jesus Christ and repentance prepare us for the ordinances of baptism and confirmation….An ordinance is a sacred ceremony or rite that shows that we have entered into a covenant with God. A covenant is a binding and solemn agreement between God and man. …Through the ordinance of baptism …we (and you today) covenant to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, always remember Him, and keep His commandments.
The manual also explains that baptism by immersion is a symbol of the death, burial and resurrection of the Savior. “In a similar way, it represents the end of our old life of sin and a commitment to live a new life as a disciple of Christ.”
Elder Hales also describes it this way: “At baptism we make a covenant with our Heavenly Father that we are willing to come into His kingdom and keep His commandments from that time forward, even though we still live in the world.
When we understand our baptismal covenant and the gift of the Holy Ghost, it will change our lives and will establish our total allegiance to the kingdom of God. When temptations come our way, if we will listen, the Holy Ghost will remind us that we have promised to remember our Savior and obey the commandments of God. “
To quote again from Preach My Gospel:
“We must be baptized to become members of the restored church…and to eventually enter the kingdom of heaven. This ordinance is a law of God and must be performed by His authority.” So today you will be baptized under authority of God.
So to review:
“ …Baptism in water has several purposes.
It is for the remission of sins, for membership in the Church, and for entrance into the celestial kingdom; it is also the doorway to personal sanctification when followed by the reception of the Holy Ghost.” (Bible Dictionary)
So your remission of sins and membership in the church will take place through your baptism and confirmation, but what about after today? Well, Preach My Gospel explains: “After baptism we show our faith by keeping our covenants. We also regularly renew the covenants we make when baptized by partaking of the sacrament. Partaking of the sacrament weekly is a commandment. It helps us remain worthy to have the spirit with us always. It is a weekly reminder of our covenants. …Our covenants remind us to repent every day of our lives. By keeping the Commandments and serving others we receive and retain a remission of our sins.”
So that is how we continue to keep our baptismal covenants day to day.
Brooke, though you are nervous, you can have peace, because I have seen in you the desire that the Book of Mormon describes in those who are ready to make and keep baptismal covenants:
“as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life--”(Mosiah 18).
I want to close with a very illustrative quote from our Bible dictionary:
“Baptism is a most sacred ordinance, which a person, having received it, can remember throughout life as a reminder of the personal commitment to Jesus Christ. Its symbolism is beautiful, and its consequences ever so desirable. John the Baptist had the signal honor among all men to take the Son of God into the water and baptize him, after which he saw the Holy Ghost descend upon Jesus. By being baptized Jesus obeyed the law himself, and set the example for all mankind.”
Brooke, I am so excited that you have chosen to follow the example of Jesus Christ in being baptized. I know that all of your family will be eternally blessed for it. I bear my personal testimony of Jesus Christ and of the divinity of this work. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
We then moved to the Primary room for the baptism. I walked into the alcove next to the baptismal font (between the dressing room and the Primary chapel) with Leah and Noelle. Noelle took Leah, and I stepped into the water, walked down the steps, and met Elder Smith in the middle. He was also dressed in all white. He quickly and quietly told me how to hold his arm, cover my nose, and bend my knees. I consciously did not look out into the watching crowd. I didn’t want anything to distract me from this moment. He said the prayer, “Brooke Leigh Rosen, having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.” I bent my knees, held my nose, and went under the water. Even though my eyes were closed, I imagined what it must have looked like to be underwater. I felt the warm water all around me like an embrace. Then I came up out of the water, and walked out of the font. I dried off and changed while Noelle played with Leah. Leah adored hearing her voice echo in the long tiled bathroom. Changing out of a sopping wet, long dress is no easy feat!
When I came back to the chapel Elder Stirland and Elder Ashbaucher were sharing their testimonies. Elijah and Hannah came and sat with me. Vanessa gave a fantastic talk on the Holy Ghost.
[Insert Vanessa’s talk here]
I walked onto the stage for my confirmation, and once again I chose to not look out into the crowd. I sat in the chair, and was surrounded by members of the Priesthood. Bishop Rogers, Brother Forbes, Brother Peachy, Elder Smith, Elder Stirland, and Elder Ashbacher laid their hands on my head while standing in a circle around me. The weight of their hands on my head was much greater than expected. Brother Peachy said the blessing.
Brooke Leigh Rosen, by the authority of the Melchizedek priesthood, I confirm you a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Brooke, receive the Holy Ghost. You have been blessed to be baptized this day by the authority of the Priesthood. Our Heavenly Father rejoices, the heavens rejoice, we rejoice with you. We bless you with the things that you need. The Atonement of Jesus Christ will be in your life. We bless you with the testimony you need to strengthen you. It will take you through the dark days and through a time you will be in need of comfort. Bless you with peace and joy here on this Earth. Bless you with great strength and courage as you raise your family and as you deal with your family matters. Bless you with the Holy Spirit always and as you follow the commandments of God and as you partake of the Sacrament to renew your covenants. Bless you with the blessings that Peter had that you will be among the chosen people. And bless you with the Priesthood in your life through the leaders of the Church and through your home teacher through the people that hold the priesthood. Bless you with health and strength and bless you that you will be a great example to your family, to your friends, and to those who come in contact with you. We do so in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
The experience wasn’t as profound as my father’s, but I did feel a wonderful peace fall over me. I’ve had many instances where I’ve felt the Holy Ghost, but this was much more gentle and sweet. I suppose in the past He needed to use a spiritual sledgehammer to get my attention, but this time I was already listening. When I stood up, the Bishop shook my hand and whispered, “Now you shake everyone’s hand”. So, I shook all of their hands and carefully walked down the stairs (a few weeks ago a woman tripped and fell down them after her confirmation).
Pilar Pucket welcomed me to Relief Society and gave me a few things (a framed picture of Jesus, A Proclaimation of the Living Christ, and a devotional journal). Bishop Rogers welcomed me to the ward. We sang "I Am a Child of God", and Renee with baby Katie in tow gave the closing prayer.
I had to get my stuff out of the dressing room because another baptism was starting, then I walked around to the Relief Society room where the reception was being held. I was amazed at how many people were there. I was congratulated more times than I can count. I am a member of an amazing ward!
Renee gave me a card with a great quote: “Baptism is the critical priesthood ordinance which opens the door to eternal life for each one of us. It is the benchmark from which we count our many blessings because this is when our accountability to follow Jesus Christ and live His Gospel begins” – Elaine L. Jack
I’m truly amazed at how peaceful Leah was during the entire service. Typically she screams if someone she doesn’t know holds her or if I leave her sight. She was perfectly happy with Noelle holding her while I changed clothes, and during both the baptism and confirmation. After the service, she quietly fell asleep in my arms. I’m not sure that has ever happened before. She usually screams before she falls asleep.
I knew it was going to be a rainy day from looking at the forecast, but the night before I prayed that there would be light or no rain when it was time to get the kids to and from the church. That prayer was answered! It may seem like a silly prayer, but trying to get three kids into or out of the van in pouring rain can certainly put me in a horrible mood. Being able to complete that task while staying dry definitely helped set the tone for the day! Our Heavenly Father knows that even the small details make a difference.
For whatever reasons, I didn’t explain to Hannah that I was going to be baptized. However, her Sunday school lesson just happened to be about baptism, and her teacher told her that I was going to be baptized later that day. When I picked Hannah up from Sunday school, she just stared at me in awe. She was VERY excited to get back to church for the service. She adored the white dress, was amazed by the immersion, and just plain giddy during the service. I could tell she felt like she truly belonged. She also enjoyed eating as many cookies as she pleased during the reception!! … When we got home she asked if I would be doing that (baptism) again. I told her ‘no’, but that in two and a half years she would be eight and she could have her own baptism.
I owe a big thanks to the following people: Michael Stanfill for taking pictures and audio recording the service (and having fresh batteries for my tape recorder!), Vanessa Stanfill for her wonderful talk and emotional support, Noelle McDowell for another amazing talk and her emotional support (and baby holding ability!!), Jan Stanfill and Joy Scott for wrangling Elijah, Ann Price and Renee Priddis for offering prayers, Jean Pace for her chorister abilities, Cindy Nielson for playing piano, Brother Peachy for saying my confirmation blessing, and Elders Smith and Stirland for being wonderful, patient yet prompting, thoughtful missionaries
Saturday, April 12, 2008
The Day Before
Well, tomorrow is the big day, and I'm nervous! The missionaries brought me a red velvet cake today with the following scripture.
Isaiah 1:18
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson they shall be as wool.
Isaiah 1:18
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson they shall be as wool.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
More preparations
I opened my front door this morning to find a painted rock that said, "Did you think to pray?" It was even painted in my favorite colors!
The missionaries went over the interview questions that I'll have to answer tomorrow. Nothing too unexpected there.
I received a blessing today to help me through the next few crazy days. Elder Stirland gave the blessing and I could tell he was really nervous, I think it was the first blessing he'd ever given.
Pilar and Tasha both asked about the baptismal dress... there may be only one that is "kind of big". I know it will all get worked out...
Mosiah 18:1-17
1 And now, it came to pass that Alma, who had fled from the servants of king Noah, repented of his sins and iniquities, and went about privately among the people, and began to teach the words of Abinadi—
2 Yea, concerning that which was to come, and also concerning the resurrection of the dead, and the redemption of the people, which was to be brought to pass through the power, and sufferings, and death of Christ, and his resurrection and ascension into heaven.
3 And as many as would hear his word he did teach. And he taught them privately, that it might not come to the knowledge of the king. And many did believe his words.
4 And it came to pass that as many as did believe him did go forth to a place which was called Mormon, having received its name from the king, being in the borders of the land having been infested, by times or at seasons, by wild beasts.
5 Now, there was in Mormon a fountain of pure water, and Alma resorted thither, there being near the water a thicket of small trees, where he did hide himself in the daytime from the searches of the king.
6 And it came to pass that as many as believed him went thither to hear his words.
7 And it came to pass *after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord.
8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—
10 Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?
11 And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts.
12 And now it came to pass that Alma took Helam, he being one of the first, and went and stood forth in the water, and cried, saying: O Lord, pour out thy Spirit upon thy servant, that he may do this work with holiness of heart.
13 And when he had said these words, the Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he said: Helam, I baptize thee, having authority from the Almighty God, as a testimony that ye have entered into a covenant to serve him until you are dead as to the mortal body; and may the Spirit of the Lord be poured out upon you; and may he grant unto you eternal life, through the redemption of Christ, whom he has prepared from the foundation of the world.
14 And after Alma had said these words, both Alma and Helam were buried in the water; and they arose and came forth out of the water rejoicing, being filled with the Spirit.
15 And again, Alma took another, and went forth a second time into the water, and baptized him according to the first, only he did not bury himself again in the water.
16 And after this manner he did baptize every one that went forth to the place of Mormon; and they were in number about two hundred and four souls; yea, and they were baptized in the waters of Mormon, and were filled with the grace of God.
17 And they were called the church of God, or the church of Christ, from that time forward. And it came to pass that whosoever was baptized by the power and authority of God was added to his church.
The missionaries went over the interview questions that I'll have to answer tomorrow. Nothing too unexpected there.
I received a blessing today to help me through the next few crazy days. Elder Stirland gave the blessing and I could tell he was really nervous, I think it was the first blessing he'd ever given.
Pilar and Tasha both asked about the baptismal dress... there may be only one that is "kind of big". I know it will all get worked out...
Mosiah 18:1-17
1 And now, it came to pass that Alma, who had fled from the servants of king Noah, repented of his sins and iniquities, and went about privately among the people, and began to teach the words of Abinadi—
2 Yea, concerning that which was to come, and also concerning the resurrection of the dead, and the redemption of the people, which was to be brought to pass through the power, and sufferings, and death of Christ, and his resurrection and ascension into heaven.
3 And as many as would hear his word he did teach. And he taught them privately, that it might not come to the knowledge of the king. And many did believe his words.
4 And it came to pass that as many as did believe him did go forth to a place which was called Mormon, having received its name from the king, being in the borders of the land having been infested, by times or at seasons, by wild beasts.
5 Now, there was in Mormon a fountain of pure water, and Alma resorted thither, there being near the water a thicket of small trees, where he did hide himself in the daytime from the searches of the king.
6 And it came to pass that as many as believed him went thither to hear his words.
7 And it came to pass *after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord.
8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—
10 Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?
11 And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts.
12 And now it came to pass that Alma took Helam, he being one of the first, and went and stood forth in the water, and cried, saying: O Lord, pour out thy Spirit upon thy servant, that he may do this work with holiness of heart.
13 And when he had said these words, the Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he said: Helam, I baptize thee, having authority from the Almighty God, as a testimony that ye have entered into a covenant to serve him until you are dead as to the mortal body; and may the Spirit of the Lord be poured out upon you; and may he grant unto you eternal life, through the redemption of Christ, whom he has prepared from the foundation of the world.
14 And after Alma had said these words, both Alma and Helam were buried in the water; and they arose and came forth out of the water rejoicing, being filled with the Spirit.
15 And again, Alma took another, and went forth a second time into the water, and baptized him according to the first, only he did not bury himself again in the water.
16 And after this manner he did baptize every one that went forth to the place of Mormon; and they were in number about two hundred and four souls; yea, and they were baptized in the waters of Mormon, and were filled with the grace of God.
17 And they were called the church of God, or the church of Christ, from that time forward. And it came to pass that whosoever was baptized by the power and authority of God was added to his church.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Preparing for Baptism
Moroni 8:25-26
25 And the first fruits of repentance is baptism; and baptism cometh by faith unto the fulfilling the commandments; and the fulfilling the commandments bringeth remission of sins;
26 And the remission of sins bringeth meekness, and lowliness of heart; and because of meekness and lowliness of heart cometh the visitation of the Holy Ghost, which Comforter filleth with hope and perfect love, which love endureth by diligence unto prayer, until the end shall come, when all the saints shall dwell with God.
26 And the remission of sins bringeth meekness, and lowliness of heart; and because of meekness and lowliness of heart cometh the visitation of the Holy Ghost, which Comforter filleth with hope and perfect love, which love endureth by diligence unto prayer, until the end shall come, when all the saints shall dwell with God.
---
Alma 36:27
27 And I have been supported under trials and troubles of every kind, yea, and in all manner of afflictions; yea, God has delivered me from prison, and from bonds, and from death; yea, and I do put my trust in him, and he will still deliver me.
---
Conference talk "Clean Hands and Pure Heart"
Sunday, April 6, 2008
General Conference
I was able to watch the Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning session. Well, I use the term "watch" kind of loosely. The TV was on and I listened when my children were quiet enough for me to hear. I look forward to reading the talks next month since they are always so good. It was neat to watch the new prophet be sustained, and the announcement of the new apostle.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
I'm the April Fool
The kids and I went to playgroup at church today and had a lot of fun. We had SO much fun that I completely forgot that the missionaries were coming at 1pm! Playgroup lasted longer than usual, and I stayed to help clean up... about halfway home, I remembered. Ooops! Thankfully, they were still waiting when I got home, and I was only about 10 minutes late.
I asked Vanessa if we could watch Conference with them on Sunday, and she invited me to her MIL's house. That will be fun!!
***
Here are the decisions I made for my baptismal service
Open Song - I Stand All Amazed
Opening Prayer - Ann Price
Talk on Baptism - Noelle McDowell
Baptism - Elder Smith
Missionary Invite
Talk on Holy Ghost - Vanessa Stanfill
Bishop's Welcome into Ward
Relief Society President Welcome to RS
Closing Song - I Am a Child of God
Closing Prayer - Renee Priddis
Light Refreshments
Confirmation - Brother Peachy
***
Ether 2:16 - 3:20
16 And the Lord said: Go to work and build, after the manner of barges which ye have hitherto built. And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did go to work, and also his brethren, and built barges after the manner which they had built, according to the instructions of the Lord. And they were small, and they were light upon the water, even like unto the lightness of a fowl upon the water.
17 And they were built after a manner that they were exceedingly tight, even that they would hold water like unto a dish; and the bottom thereof was tight like unto a dish; and the sides thereof were tight like unto a dish; and the ends thereof were peaked; and the top thereof was tight like unto a dish; and the length thereof was the length of a tree; and the door thereof, when it was shut, was tight like unto a dish.
18 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared cried unto the Lord, saying: O Lord, I have performed the work which thou hast commanded me, and I have made the barges according as thou hast directed me.
19 And behold, O Lord, in them there is no light; whither shall we steer? And also we shall perish, for in them we cannot breathe, save it is the air which is in them; therefore we shall perish.
20 And the Lord said unto the brother of Jared: Behold, thou shalt make a hole in the top, and also in the bottom; and when thou shalt suffer for air thou shalt unstop the hole and receive air. And if it be so that the water come in upon thee, behold, ye shall stop the hole, that ye may not perish in the flood.
21 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did so, according as the Lord had commanded.
22 And he cried again unto the Lord saying: O Lord, behold I have done even as thou hast commanded me; and I have prepared the vessels for my people, and behold there is no light in them. Behold, O Lord, wilt thou suffer that we shall cross this great water in darkness?
23 And the Lord said unto the brother of Jared: What will ye that I should do that ye may have light in your vessels? For behold, ye cannot have windows, for they will be dashed in pieces; neither shall ye take fire with you, for ye shall not go by the light of fire.
24 For behold, ye shall be as a whale in the midst of the sea; for the mountain waves shall dash upon you. Nevertheless, I will bring you up again out of the depths of the sea; for the winds have gone forth out of my mouth, and also the rains and the floods have I sent forth.
25 And behold, I prepare you against these things; for ye cannot cross this great deep save I prepare you against the waves of the sea, and the winds which have gone forth, and the floods which shall come. Therefore what will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?
1 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared, (now the number of the vessels which had been prepared was eight) went forth unto the mount, which they called the mount Shelem, because of its exceeding height, and did molten out of a rock sixteen small stones; and they were white and clear, even as transparent glass; and he did carry them in his hands upon the top of the mount, and cried again unto the Lord, saying:
2 O Lord, thou hast said that we must be encompassed about by the floods. Now behold, O Lord, and do not be angry with thy servant because of his weakness before thee; for we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens, and that we are unworthy before thee; because of the fall our natures have become evil continually; nevertheless, O Lord, thou hast given us a commandment that we must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires.
3 Behold, O Lord, thou hast smitten us because of our iniquity, and hast driven us forth, and for these many years we have been in the wilderness; nevertheless, thou hast been merciful unto us. O Lord, look upon me in pity, and turn away thine anger from this thy people, and suffer not that they shall go forth across this raging deep in darkness; but behold these things which I have molten out of the rock.
4 And I know, O Lord, that thou hast all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man; therefore touch these stones, O Lord, with thy finger, and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness; and they shall shine forth unto us in the vessels which we have prepared, that we may have light while we shall cross the sea.
5 Behold, O Lord, thou canst do this. We know that thou art able to show forth great power, which looks small unto the understanding of men.
6 And it came to pass that when the brother of Jared had said these words, behold, the Lord stretched forth his hand and touched the stones one by one with his finger. And the veil was taken from off the eyes of the brother of Jared, and he saw the finger of the Lord; and it was as the finger of a man, like unto flesh and blood; and the brother of Jared fell down before the Lord, for he was struck with fear.
7 And the Lord saw that the brother of Jared had fallen to the earth; and the Lord said unto him: Arise, why hast thou fallen?
8 And he saith unto the Lord: I saw the finger of the Lord, and I feared lest he should smite me; for I knew not that the Lord had flesh and blood.
9 And the Lord said unto him: Because of thy faith thou hast seen that I shall take upon me flesh and blood; and never has man come before me with such exceeding faith as thou hast; for were it not so ye could not have seen my finger. Sawest thou more than this?
10 And he answered: Nay; Lord, show thyself unto me.
11 And the Lord said unto him: Believest thou the words which I shall speak?
12 And he answered: Yea, Lord, I know that thou speakest the truth, for thou art a God of truth, and canst not lie.
13 And when he had said these words, behold, the Lord showed himself unto him, and said: Because thou knowest these things ye are redeemed from the fall; therefore ye are brought back into my presence; therefore I show myself unto you.
14 Behold, I am he who was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my people. Behold, I am Jesus Christ. I am the Father and the Son. In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name; and they shall become my sons and my daughters.
15 And never have I showed myself unto man whom I have created, for never has man believed in me as thou hast. Seest thou that ye are created after mine own image? Yea, even all men were created in the beginning after mine own image.
16 Behold, this body, which ye now behold, is the body of my spirit; and man have I created after the body of my spirit; and even as I appear unto thee to be in the spirit will I appear unto my people in the flesh.
17 And now, as I, Moroni, said I could not make a full account of these things which are written, therefore it sufficeth me to say that Jesus showed himself unto this man in the spirit, even after the manner and in the likeness of the same body even as he showed himself unto the Nephites.
18 And he ministered unto him even as he ministered unto the Nephites; and all this, that this man might know that he was God, because of the many great works which the Lord had showed unto him.
19 And because of the knowledge of this man he could not be kept from beholding within the veil; and he saw the finger of Jesus, which, when he saw, he fell with fear; for he knew that it was the finger of the Lord; and he had faith no longer, for he knew, nothing doubting.
20 Wherefore, having this perfect knowledge of God, he could not be kept from within the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; and he did minister unto him.
I asked Vanessa if we could watch Conference with them on Sunday, and she invited me to her MIL's house. That will be fun!!
***
Here are the decisions I made for my baptismal service
Open Song - I Stand All Amazed
Opening Prayer - Ann Price
Talk on Baptism - Noelle McDowell
Baptism - Elder Smith
Missionary Invite
Talk on Holy Ghost - Vanessa Stanfill
Bishop's Welcome into Ward
Relief Society President Welcome to RS
Closing Song - I Am a Child of God
Closing Prayer - Renee Priddis
Light Refreshments
Confirmation - Brother Peachy
***
Ether 2:16 - 3:20
16 And the Lord said: Go to work and build, after the manner of barges which ye have hitherto built. And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did go to work, and also his brethren, and built barges after the manner which they had built, according to the instructions of the Lord. And they were small, and they were light upon the water, even like unto the lightness of a fowl upon the water.
17 And they were built after a manner that they were exceedingly tight, even that they would hold water like unto a dish; and the bottom thereof was tight like unto a dish; and the sides thereof were tight like unto a dish; and the ends thereof were peaked; and the top thereof was tight like unto a dish; and the length thereof was the length of a tree; and the door thereof, when it was shut, was tight like unto a dish.
18 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared cried unto the Lord, saying: O Lord, I have performed the work which thou hast commanded me, and I have made the barges according as thou hast directed me.
19 And behold, O Lord, in them there is no light; whither shall we steer? And also we shall perish, for in them we cannot breathe, save it is the air which is in them; therefore we shall perish.
20 And the Lord said unto the brother of Jared: Behold, thou shalt make a hole in the top, and also in the bottom; and when thou shalt suffer for air thou shalt unstop the hole and receive air. And if it be so that the water come in upon thee, behold, ye shall stop the hole, that ye may not perish in the flood.
21 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did so, according as the Lord had commanded.
22 And he cried again unto the Lord saying: O Lord, behold I have done even as thou hast commanded me; and I have prepared the vessels for my people, and behold there is no light in them. Behold, O Lord, wilt thou suffer that we shall cross this great water in darkness?
23 And the Lord said unto the brother of Jared: What will ye that I should do that ye may have light in your vessels? For behold, ye cannot have windows, for they will be dashed in pieces; neither shall ye take fire with you, for ye shall not go by the light of fire.
24 For behold, ye shall be as a whale in the midst of the sea; for the mountain waves shall dash upon you. Nevertheless, I will bring you up again out of the depths of the sea; for the winds have gone forth out of my mouth, and also the rains and the floods have I sent forth.
25 And behold, I prepare you against these things; for ye cannot cross this great deep save I prepare you against the waves of the sea, and the winds which have gone forth, and the floods which shall come. Therefore what will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?
1 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared, (now the number of the vessels which had been prepared was eight) went forth unto the mount, which they called the mount Shelem, because of its exceeding height, and did molten out of a rock sixteen small stones; and they were white and clear, even as transparent glass; and he did carry them in his hands upon the top of the mount, and cried again unto the Lord, saying:
2 O Lord, thou hast said that we must be encompassed about by the floods. Now behold, O Lord, and do not be angry with thy servant because of his weakness before thee; for we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens, and that we are unworthy before thee; because of the fall our natures have become evil continually; nevertheless, O Lord, thou hast given us a commandment that we must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires.
3 Behold, O Lord, thou hast smitten us because of our iniquity, and hast driven us forth, and for these many years we have been in the wilderness; nevertheless, thou hast been merciful unto us. O Lord, look upon me in pity, and turn away thine anger from this thy people, and suffer not that they shall go forth across this raging deep in darkness; but behold these things which I have molten out of the rock.
4 And I know, O Lord, that thou hast all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man; therefore touch these stones, O Lord, with thy finger, and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness; and they shall shine forth unto us in the vessels which we have prepared, that we may have light while we shall cross the sea.
5 Behold, O Lord, thou canst do this. We know that thou art able to show forth great power, which looks small unto the understanding of men.
6 And it came to pass that when the brother of Jared had said these words, behold, the Lord stretched forth his hand and touched the stones one by one with his finger. And the veil was taken from off the eyes of the brother of Jared, and he saw the finger of the Lord; and it was as the finger of a man, like unto flesh and blood; and the brother of Jared fell down before the Lord, for he was struck with fear.
7 And the Lord saw that the brother of Jared had fallen to the earth; and the Lord said unto him: Arise, why hast thou fallen?
8 And he saith unto the Lord: I saw the finger of the Lord, and I feared lest he should smite me; for I knew not that the Lord had flesh and blood.
9 And the Lord said unto him: Because of thy faith thou hast seen that I shall take upon me flesh and blood; and never has man come before me with such exceeding faith as thou hast; for were it not so ye could not have seen my finger. Sawest thou more than this?
10 And he answered: Nay; Lord, show thyself unto me.
11 And the Lord said unto him: Believest thou the words which I shall speak?
12 And he answered: Yea, Lord, I know that thou speakest the truth, for thou art a God of truth, and canst not lie.
13 And when he had said these words, behold, the Lord showed himself unto him, and said: Because thou knowest these things ye are redeemed from the fall; therefore ye are brought back into my presence; therefore I show myself unto you.
14 Behold, I am he who was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my people. Behold, I am Jesus Christ. I am the Father and the Son. In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name; and they shall become my sons and my daughters.
15 And never have I showed myself unto man whom I have created, for never has man believed in me as thou hast. Seest thou that ye are created after mine own image? Yea, even all men were created in the beginning after mine own image.
16 Behold, this body, which ye now behold, is the body of my spirit; and man have I created after the body of my spirit; and even as I appear unto thee to be in the spirit will I appear unto my people in the flesh.
17 And now, as I, Moroni, said I could not make a full account of these things which are written, therefore it sufficeth me to say that Jesus showed himself unto this man in the spirit, even after the manner and in the likeness of the same body even as he showed himself unto the Nephites.
18 And he ministered unto him even as he ministered unto the Nephites; and all this, that this man might know that he was God, because of the many great works which the Lord had showed unto him.
19 And because of the knowledge of this man he could not be kept from beholding within the veil; and he saw the finger of Jesus, which, when he saw, he fell with fear; for he knew that it was the finger of the Lord; and he had faith no longer, for he knew, nothing doubting.
20 Wherefore, having this perfect knowledge of God, he could not be kept from within the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; and he did minister unto him.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Fast Sunday
The missionaries left this for me last night.
Ephesians 6:13-17
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
***
Today is fast Sunday, and I decided to go ahead and fast for the 2 meals. I've only ever fasted for one meal before, and it was tough. I am exempt since I'm nursing, but I figure as long as I drink water, it shouldn't be a big deal. I'm asking Heavenly Father for a testimony of Joseph Smith and The Book of Mormon.
I really enjoyed the testimonies today, as usual. Steve Mitner spoke again, and his situation is similar to mine. In Sunday School we watched a video about temples that was really interesting. The lesson in Relief Society was "Knowing That We Know". All of these really hit home. I love it when that happens!!
The missionaries told me that I have to make some decisions regarding my baptismal service. Who will speak? What songs will be sung? Who will perform the baptism? Who will give the confirmation blessing? Wow! I really don't know... I have some ideas, but I need to think about all of it some more.
Ephesians 6:13-17
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
***
Today is fast Sunday, and I decided to go ahead and fast for the 2 meals. I've only ever fasted for one meal before, and it was tough. I am exempt since I'm nursing, but I figure as long as I drink water, it shouldn't be a big deal. I'm asking Heavenly Father for a testimony of Joseph Smith and The Book of Mormon.
I really enjoyed the testimonies today, as usual. Steve Mitner spoke again, and his situation is similar to mine. In Sunday School we watched a video about temples that was really interesting. The lesson in Relief Society was "Knowing That We Know". All of these really hit home. I love it when that happens!!
The missionaries told me that I have to make some decisions regarding my baptismal service. Who will speak? What songs will be sung? Who will perform the baptism? Who will give the confirmation blessing? Wow! I really don't know... I have some ideas, but I need to think about all of it some more.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Watching a DVD with the McDowells and the Missionaries
For today's lesson we watched Finding Faith in Christ. Noelle and Spencer McDowell were the missionaries' chaperones today. Last night I talked with Pete about giving his consent for me to join the church. He asked a few questions, but didn't specifically give an answer. I don't think he'll refuse... I just need to get something written for him to sign.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
The Latest Visit
The missionaries left just a few minutes ago, and I thought I'd type up what we covered.
We continued talking about the plan of salvation and the steps involved: atonement, repentence, baptism, confirmation, enduring to the end. Elder Stirland gave a good way to remember the steps of repentance: 1) think about what you've done, 2) have Godly sorrow, 3) ask for forgiveness, 4) restitution, 5) refrain from commiting the same sin again.
Apparently, they left me a scripture yesterday, but it blew into the bushes and I did see it until now.
2 Nephi 31:17-21
"17 Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do; for, for this cause have they been shown unto me, that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter. For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water; and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost.
18 And then are ye in this strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life; yea, ye have entered in by the gate; ye have done according to the commandments of the Father and the Son; and ye have received the Holy Ghost, which witnesses of the Father and the Son, unto the fulfilling of the promise which he hath made, that if ye entered in by the way ye should receive.
19 And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.
20 Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen. "
They also talked about tithing, so I explained my predicament. I can either pay a tithe and be dishonest about it by not telling Pete, or I can ask his permission which I don't think he'll give. They went on to tell me that I need to tithe any money that belongs to me, but if Pete doesn't give permission that doesn't count against me... That's nice to know!
The next topic was the law of chastity, which I certainly don't have a problem with.
Last, they recently found out that I have to have Pete's written permission to be baptized... so, I suppose, I'll have to do that soon.
The good news is that if Venita ends up coming, doing the confirmation the same day as the baptism is no problem.
We continued talking about the plan of salvation and the steps involved: atonement, repentence, baptism, confirmation, enduring to the end. Elder Stirland gave a good way to remember the steps of repentance: 1) think about what you've done, 2) have Godly sorrow, 3) ask for forgiveness, 4) restitution, 5) refrain from commiting the same sin again.
Apparently, they left me a scripture yesterday, but it blew into the bushes and I did see it until now.
2 Nephi 31:17-21
"17 Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do; for, for this cause have they been shown unto me, that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter. For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water; and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost.
18 And then are ye in this strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life; yea, ye have entered in by the gate; ye have done according to the commandments of the Father and the Son; and ye have received the Holy Ghost, which witnesses of the Father and the Son, unto the fulfilling of the promise which he hath made, that if ye entered in by the way ye should receive.
19 And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.
20 Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen. "
They also talked about tithing, so I explained my predicament. I can either pay a tithe and be dishonest about it by not telling Pete, or I can ask his permission which I don't think he'll give. They went on to tell me that I need to tithe any money that belongs to me, but if Pete doesn't give permission that doesn't count against me... That's nice to know!
The next topic was the law of chastity, which I certainly don't have a problem with.
Last, they recently found out that I have to have Pete's written permission to be baptized... so, I suppose, I'll have to do that soon.
The good news is that if Venita ends up coming, doing the confirmation the same day as the baptism is no problem.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Easter Sunday
Not a whole lot has been going on lately. I finished the Gospel of Luke and started reading John. I've only read a few chapters so far. It was interesting to realize that John 3:16 was part of a conversation with Nicodemus, the Pharisee. I never knew that...
On Thursday the missionaries went over the plan of salvation. I was already pretty familiar with it, but I think they just wanted to be sure. They left me an Easter basket on my front porch, and I saw it as I was driving off to church this morning. That was pretty unexpected. Here are the messages they left.
"Now... the thing of which I am certain, and of whitch I bear witness, is the atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. Without it life is meaningless... There would be no Christmas if there were no Easter." - President Gordon B. Hinkley
"[This] week the Christian world will celebrate the most significant event in world history... 'He is not here for He has risen, ' was the first confirmation of the literal resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The empty tomb that first Easter morning brought comforting assurance, an affirmative answer to Job's question, 'If a man die, shall he live again?' --He shall live again -- 'I am the resurrection and the life,' spoke the Savior. 'He that believeth in me though he were dead. Yet shall he live and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die." - President Thomas Monson
On Thursday the missionaries went over the plan of salvation. I was already pretty familiar with it, but I think they just wanted to be sure. They left me an Easter basket on my front porch, and I saw it as I was driving off to church this morning. That was pretty unexpected. Here are the messages they left.
"Now... the thing of which I am certain, and of whitch I bear witness, is the atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. Without it life is meaningless... There would be no Christmas if there were no Easter." - President Gordon B. Hinkley
"[This] week the Christian world will celebrate the most significant event in world history... 'He is not here for He has risen, ' was the first confirmation of the literal resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The empty tomb that first Easter morning brought comforting assurance, an affirmative answer to Job's question, 'If a man die, shall he live again?' --He shall live again -- 'I am the resurrection and the life,' spoke the Savior. 'He that believeth in me though he were dead. Yet shall he live and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die." - President Thomas Monson
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
The Long Road to How I Got Here
1984
My very first introduction to the Church happend when I was about ten years old. My 15 year old sister went on a drinking binge with her friends, and when she was dropped off at home she wasn't breathing and her heart had stopped. My mom performed CPR until the ambulance arrived. While my dad was in the ER waiting room, he was approached by a group of Mormons who were there waiting to for a youth who had broken his leg during a baseball game. They offered to pray with him, and gave him a copy of The Book of Mormon. He was soon meeting with the missionaries.
I remember sitting in on at least one of the missionary lessons. I don't remember the lesson, but they let me ask a question when it was over. I asked if there were people who lived on other planets. I'm sure my Dad was rolling his eyes at my question, but the missionaries were very kind. They told me that they did believe there were people who lived on other planets, and that they were children of Heavenly Father too.
My Dad later told me that he read The Book of Mormon three times before he was baptized. He felt like he had "finally found the truth". I was there when he was baptized, and I remember parts of it quite vividly. I remember the white polyester jumpsuit he wore. I remember him being immersed, and I remember the laying on of hands when he received the Holy Ghost. He also told me later that he "saw blue light" during his confirmation. All in all, he had a PROFOUND experience.
My Mom was not happy with any of these choices my Dad had made, but she did go to church with him once. I went too, and remember a few things about it. I remember when the Sacrament was passed, and my Dad was VERY adament that I not take it. I rember the lesson in Sunday School. We learned about how Brigham Young was chosen to be the Prophet after Joseph Smith was killed. I was very impressed by that story.
After that I'm not exactly sure what happend. My Dad became inactive, and eventually requested that his name be removed from the Church rolls, which means he was excommunicated. My grandparents gave us anti-Mormon books, The God Makers was one that I read, so I'm sure they had something to do with my Dad leaving the Church. Later, he told me that The Salamander Letters had a negative influence on him, but he had no idea that those turned out to be forgeries.
1994 - 2000
When I was in college, my next door neighbor, Shari was an inactive memeber of the Church. She introduced me to her friend, Michael, who eventually sent me a copy of The Book of Mormon. I wanted a copy without having missionaries show up on my doorstep.
2002-2003
I read part of The Book of Mormon. I made it about halfway through the book of Alma.
2004
I belong to an online email mommy group where I met Venita. Her 6th child, Christian, died when he was 13 months old. He had a congenital brain abnormality that caused fluid to build up around his brain. By the time anyone realized what was wrong, it was too late. Venita mentioned that her husband had given her a blessing that gave her some comfort. When I read that message I had a very strong urge to find out about this blessing. I didn't want to upset Venita by asking about it, but I just had to ask. The second I hit "send" I regretted it. Well, Venita had me call her, and she read the very long blessing to me through her tears. The condensed version is that Christian's life was so short "to remind people that Christ exists for them, to be a light unto peopleand bring them to Christ." Venita wanted me to go back to church, any church was fine, but she wanted my to learn more about her church as well.
I found the Gospel Principles book online at LDS.org, and I started reading it. I continued my study on and off for a while.
August 2006
I was on a Mormon kick, and I'd been reading some interesting books that could definitely be classified as anti-Mormon. I was in the middle of one that I really wasn't enjoying at all, something about it really made my skin crawl. Someone rang the doorbell, and there stood two LDS missionaries. My heart just about leapt out of my throat! They asked if I had read The Book of Mormon, and I told them that I'd read some of it and I owned a copy. They were a little surprised by that. They asked if they could present a lesson, and I said "yes". My husband was out of the country for a week, and I took that as an opportunity to take my kids to church and have 2-3 lessons. I ADORED going to the LDS church. I couldn't believe how welcome I felt. Wrangling Elijah (14 months) on the front row wasn't great, but the people were.
Pete came home from Mexico, and I admitted what I had done. He was livid. All of my experiences fell flat when I tried to explain them to him. I asked if I could attend for a month to see if I still liked it, but he asked that I not. He was afraid he would lose me to this "Mormon cult". He didn't out and out ban me, so I took the kids one more time. We went for the entire 3 hours that time. After that I decided it was too big of a strain on our marriage.
Summer 2007
The missionaries again knock on my door, and I explain that my husband wants me to have nothing to do with the church.
Sept 2007
I found out about something that Pete did, and I decided he no longer had the authority to decide where I did or didn't go to church. I was so upset and hurt that I took my kids back to the LDS church purely out of spite. The wards who meet in the building had swapped times, and I actually attended the wrong ward. Everyone was just as welcoming as they'd been the year before. I started attending regularly (with the correct ward, lol) at that time. The missionaries (one remembered me from knocking on my door a month or so earlier) weren't quite sure what to do with me, and just left me alone for a while. I finally decided that it was time to continue the discussions, and I talked to the missionaries sometime in November.
My very first introduction to the Church happend when I was about ten years old. My 15 year old sister went on a drinking binge with her friends, and when she was dropped off at home she wasn't breathing and her heart had stopped. My mom performed CPR until the ambulance arrived. While my dad was in the ER waiting room, he was approached by a group of Mormons who were there waiting to for a youth who had broken his leg during a baseball game. They offered to pray with him, and gave him a copy of The Book of Mormon. He was soon meeting with the missionaries.
I remember sitting in on at least one of the missionary lessons. I don't remember the lesson, but they let me ask a question when it was over. I asked if there were people who lived on other planets. I'm sure my Dad was rolling his eyes at my question, but the missionaries were very kind. They told me that they did believe there were people who lived on other planets, and that they were children of Heavenly Father too.
My Dad later told me that he read The Book of Mormon three times before he was baptized. He felt like he had "finally found the truth". I was there when he was baptized, and I remember parts of it quite vividly. I remember the white polyester jumpsuit he wore. I remember him being immersed, and I remember the laying on of hands when he received the Holy Ghost. He also told me later that he "saw blue light" during his confirmation. All in all, he had a PROFOUND experience.
My Mom was not happy with any of these choices my Dad had made, but she did go to church with him once. I went too, and remember a few things about it. I remember when the Sacrament was passed, and my Dad was VERY adament that I not take it. I rember the lesson in Sunday School. We learned about how Brigham Young was chosen to be the Prophet after Joseph Smith was killed. I was very impressed by that story.
After that I'm not exactly sure what happend. My Dad became inactive, and eventually requested that his name be removed from the Church rolls, which means he was excommunicated. My grandparents gave us anti-Mormon books, The God Makers was one that I read, so I'm sure they had something to do with my Dad leaving the Church. Later, he told me that The Salamander Letters had a negative influence on him, but he had no idea that those turned out to be forgeries.
1994 - 2000
When I was in college, my next door neighbor, Shari was an inactive memeber of the Church. She introduced me to her friend, Michael, who eventually sent me a copy of The Book of Mormon. I wanted a copy without having missionaries show up on my doorstep.
2002-2003
I read part of The Book of Mormon. I made it about halfway through the book of Alma.
2004
I belong to an online email mommy group where I met Venita. Her 6th child, Christian, died when he was 13 months old. He had a congenital brain abnormality that caused fluid to build up around his brain. By the time anyone realized what was wrong, it was too late. Venita mentioned that her husband had given her a blessing that gave her some comfort. When I read that message I had a very strong urge to find out about this blessing. I didn't want to upset Venita by asking about it, but I just had to ask. The second I hit "send" I regretted it. Well, Venita had me call her, and she read the very long blessing to me through her tears. The condensed version is that Christian's life was so short "to remind people that Christ exists for them, to be a light unto peopleand bring them to Christ." Venita wanted me to go back to church, any church was fine, but she wanted my to learn more about her church as well.
I found the Gospel Principles book online at LDS.org, and I started reading it. I continued my study on and off for a while.
August 2006
I was on a Mormon kick, and I'd been reading some interesting books that could definitely be classified as anti-Mormon. I was in the middle of one that I really wasn't enjoying at all, something about it really made my skin crawl. Someone rang the doorbell, and there stood two LDS missionaries. My heart just about leapt out of my throat! They asked if I had read The Book of Mormon, and I told them that I'd read some of it and I owned a copy. They were a little surprised by that. They asked if they could present a lesson, and I said "yes". My husband was out of the country for a week, and I took that as an opportunity to take my kids to church and have 2-3 lessons. I ADORED going to the LDS church. I couldn't believe how welcome I felt. Wrangling Elijah (14 months) on the front row wasn't great, but the people were.
Pete came home from Mexico, and I admitted what I had done. He was livid. All of my experiences fell flat when I tried to explain them to him. I asked if I could attend for a month to see if I still liked it, but he asked that I not. He was afraid he would lose me to this "Mormon cult". He didn't out and out ban me, so I took the kids one more time. We went for the entire 3 hours that time. After that I decided it was too big of a strain on our marriage.
Summer 2007
The missionaries again knock on my door, and I explain that my husband wants me to have nothing to do with the church.
Sept 2007
I found out about something that Pete did, and I decided he no longer had the authority to decide where I did or didn't go to church. I was so upset and hurt that I took my kids back to the LDS church purely out of spite. The wards who meet in the building had swapped times, and I actually attended the wrong ward. Everyone was just as welcoming as they'd been the year before. I started attending regularly (with the correct ward, lol) at that time. The missionaries (one remembered me from knocking on my door a month or so earlier) weren't quite sure what to do with me, and just left me alone for a while. I finally decided that it was time to continue the discussions, and I talked to the missionaries sometime in November.
Green Jello
The missionaries stopped by and brought green jello for St Patrick's Day. They said it is a Utah Mormon favorite, lol. They also gave me another scripture.
1 Nephi 8:12
And as I partook of the fruit thereof it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit.
I am about halfway through the Gospel of Luke right now. I hope to get another 1/4 read today.
1 Nephi 8:12
And as I partook of the fruit thereof it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit.
I am about halfway through the Gospel of Luke right now. I hope to get another 1/4 read today.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Newest scripture and thought for the day, compliments of the missionaries
Doctrine and Covenants 59:9-10
9 And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day;
10 For verily this is a day appointed unto you to rest from your labors, and to pay thy devotions unto the Most High;
***
Quaking Aspen: A tree when standing alone has no strength against the wind... and will fall because their roots are shallow; when more than one stand together, their roots intertwine and when the wind blows the trees will sway and sway, but because of the strengthened roots the trees will not fall. So it is with church - a place where we can go to strengthen out roots in Christ.
***
I finished reading Mark, and have now started Luke. I never knew that the Gospel of Mark was so similar to Matthew. I know that Mark was the first Gospel that was written, and that Matthew was patterned after it... I just didn't realize HOW much.
9 And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day;
10 For verily this is a day appointed unto you to rest from your labors, and to pay thy devotions unto the Most High;
***
Quaking Aspen: A tree when standing alone has no strength against the wind... and will fall because their roots are shallow; when more than one stand together, their roots intertwine and when the wind blows the trees will sway and sway, but because of the strengthened roots the trees will not fall. So it is with church - a place where we can go to strengthen out roots in Christ.
***
I finished reading Mark, and have now started Luke. I never knew that the Gospel of Mark was so similar to Matthew. I know that Mark was the first Gospel that was written, and that Matthew was patterned after it... I just didn't realize HOW much.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
A lot has happend...
Be careful what you wish for!! A couple of days after my last post, the new missionaries showed up on my doorstep to meet me. My husband answered the door, and well, I can't say he was terribly pleased. The next day, they brought brownies. Over the next week, they left me scripture cards on three different occassions, and brought cookies. I was pretty shocked, but I don't feel ignored anymore.
The scriptures were
Matthew 11:28-30
"28 ¶ Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
D&C 6:22-24
"22 Verily, verily, I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might know concerning the truth of these things.
23 Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?
24 And now, behold, you have received a witness; for if I have told you things which no man knoweth have you not received a witness?
Alma 32:21
"21 And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.
They left the Matthew card the day I was reading Matthew (I've decided to read the New Testament now that I finished the Book of Mormon). The D&C passage REALLY spoke to me, and was quite powerful. Alma 32 is always a good one for me.
I missed the stake conference because Leah was really sick. I really wanted to go to that after Vanessa told me about it. I'm looking forward to chuch tomorrow, it's the ward conference. I'm not sure what that entails, but I'm sure the speakers will be good... they usually are.
I think I will be baptized by the end of the month. It just seems like the right thing to do.
***
I had a question that I posed to my friend, Kim. She's pretty much the only objective sounding board I have. I wondered if satan could create something that did lots of good things but in the end led people away from Christ. The LDS church says that satan can't do anything that is good, he can only do evil. I wasn't really convinced until I read the following in Matthew 7.
"15 ¶ Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them"
The scriptures were
Matthew 11:28-30
"28 ¶ Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
D&C 6:22-24
"22 Verily, verily, I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might know concerning the truth of these things.
23 Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?
24 And now, behold, you have received a witness; for if I have told you things which no man knoweth have you not received a witness?
Alma 32:21
"21 And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.
They left the Matthew card the day I was reading Matthew (I've decided to read the New Testament now that I finished the Book of Mormon). The D&C passage REALLY spoke to me, and was quite powerful. Alma 32 is always a good one for me.
I missed the stake conference because Leah was really sick. I really wanted to go to that after Vanessa told me about it. I'm looking forward to chuch tomorrow, it's the ward conference. I'm not sure what that entails, but I'm sure the speakers will be good... they usually are.
I think I will be baptized by the end of the month. It just seems like the right thing to do.
***
I had a question that I posed to my friend, Kim. She's pretty much the only objective sounding board I have. I wondered if satan could create something that did lots of good things but in the end led people away from Christ. The LDS church says that satan can't do anything that is good, he can only do evil. I wasn't really convinced until I read the following in Matthew 7.
"15 ¶ Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them"
Monday, March 3, 2008
What's going on
Yesterday, I had a talk with the mission president. I explained that while the missionaries are nice, and everything, I feel very frustrated with them. Several times they have cancelled lessons, or failed to show up. They have lost my phone number on more than one occassion, and often try to avoid me during Sunday school. The mission president agreed that these boys are not as pro-active as he would like. The two wards that meet in our building are getting 3 new missionaries this week, and the one left will be moved to the other ward. So, hopefully the next batch will be a little easier to work with.
We also discussed where I am spiritually right now, and I felt a bit better after talking about it. Today, I finished reading the Book of Mormon. I have to say that I really did feel the Spirit when I was reading that last chapter of Moroni. So, now it's up to me to make the commitment, and get baptized.
We also discussed where I am spiritually right now, and I felt a bit better after talking about it. Today, I finished reading the Book of Mormon. I have to say that I really did feel the Spirit when I was reading that last chapter of Moroni. So, now it's up to me to make the commitment, and get baptized.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Things I believe
There are things I believe that the LDS Church teaches and some things I'm not so sure about. I'm going to start off with what I believe.
I believe -
-Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
- Christ died on the cross for the salvation of everyone who ever lived or will live.
- God is our Heavenly Father and our spirits lived with him before we were born.
-We have free will. This means it is up to us to make our own choices, good or bad.
- The world was created to be our testing ground, to see if we would make good choices so we could return to our Heavenly Father.
-Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are three separate beings that make up the Godhead.
- Everyone will be given the chance to hear and accept or reject the Gospel, even if they didn't during their time on Earth.
- Necessary ordinances can be performed posthumously with a proxy.
- The Bible is the word of God. I'm not sure that everything should be taken literally, though I do believe it all is true.
I'm less sure about -
- Joseph Smith was a true prophet.
- The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price are true and inspired by God.
- The importance of eternal families. I like the idea, but I never thought we'd be lost from each other in heaven anyway.
I believe -
-Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
- Christ died on the cross for the salvation of everyone who ever lived or will live.
- God is our Heavenly Father and our spirits lived with him before we were born.
-We have free will. This means it is up to us to make our own choices, good or bad.
- The world was created to be our testing ground, to see if we would make good choices so we could return to our Heavenly Father.
-Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are three separate beings that make up the Godhead.
- Everyone will be given the chance to hear and accept or reject the Gospel, even if they didn't during their time on Earth.
- Necessary ordinances can be performed posthumously with a proxy.
- The Bible is the word of God. I'm not sure that everything should be taken literally, though I do believe it all is true.
I'm less sure about -
- Joseph Smith was a true prophet.
- The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price are true and inspired by God.
- The importance of eternal families. I like the idea, but I never thought we'd be lost from each other in heaven anyway.
Monday, February 25, 2008
My Journey Begins
I am reading the Book of Mormon and seriously considering baptism. The missionaries wanted me to set a date for baptism and I told them March... That was back in early December, maybe even November. March is fast approaching and I still haven't finished the Book of Mormon. I am getting close to finishing, which is very important to me before I can truly consider joining the Church.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
